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Smart Infrastructure: The Roadmap to Resilient Urban Development

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India’s cities are evolving rapidly in response to the pressures of population growth, climate change, environmental degradation, and economic transformation. At the heart of this evolution lies the vision of Smart Infrastructure —an integrated framework of digital technology, sustainable practices, and inclusive planning that aims to build resilient urban ecosystems . Central to this vision is the Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), which is extended till March 2025. Source: https://www.india.gov.in/spotlight/smart-cities-mission-step-towards-smart-india   As of late 2024, the SCM has witnessed the completion of 7,352 out of 8,066 projects, amounting to ₹1.47 lakh crore out of a total sanctioned ₹1.64 lakh crore. Smart infrastructure in Indian cities now prominently features Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) operational in all 100 smart cities . These centres utilize artificial intelligenc...
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Anveshan: Seismic Survey Incentivization Programme to Boost India's Energy Security

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India, which imports around 85% of its crude oil requirements, has launched “Mission Anveshan” to reduce import dependency and strengthen domestic energy security . The programme, introduced by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in FY2025, incentivizes 2D seismic surveys across uncharted onshore sedimentary basins. With a total outlay of ₹720 crore over two years (FY2025–FY2026), the initiative targets 20,275-line kilometres of survey data across seven key basins: Ganga-Punjab, Rajasthan, Saurashtra, Deccan Syncline, Cuddapah, Krishna-Godavari, and Chhattisgarh .   Source: https://typo-collab.hindustantimes.com/politics/policy/oil-gas-reserves-seismic-survey-scheme-energy-security-mission-anveshan-sedimentary-basins-ongc-oil-india-11745148538701.html The mission is a strategic extension of the National Seismic Programme (NSP) , which focusses on acquiring, processing, and interpreting subsurface data to identify untapped hydrocarbon reserves . These surveys are vital f...
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Sundarbans, A Critical Mangrove Forest and Unique Ecosystem Facing Severe Groundwater Crisis

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The Mangrove forests are among the most productive, critical and biologically diverse ecosystems. The Sundarbans , the world's largest contiguous mangrove forest, spans the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers across India and Bangladesh . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the iconic Bengal tiger, and serves as a vital buffer against cyclones and storm surges.   However, this unique ecosystem at Sundarbans is currently confronting a severe groundwater crisis that threatens both its ecological integrity and the livelihoods of millions of residents who depend on its resources. Recent studies have highlighted alarming rates of groundwater depletion in the region, primarily due to unregulated and illegal extraction for agricultural purposes.  In areas like Basanti Block, groundwater levels are declining by 1 to 2 meters annually , raising concerns about the sustainability of water resources for both human consumption ...
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SMILE Programme by ADB Aims to Reduce India's Logistics Costs While Enhancing its Efficiency

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India's logistics sector is undergoing a transformative shift. It is fueled by infrastructure upgrades, policy reforms, and technology integration. This sector is poised for a major transformation with the SMILE (Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem) programme, supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) . Source: https://www.logisticsinsider.in/adb-investment-to-transform-indias-logistics-landscape-under-the-smile-program/ Announced in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry , SMILE aims to significantly reduce India’s high logistics costs, which currently stands at 13–14% of GDP , compared to the global average of 8% , while improving overall efficiency and infrastructure. According to the National Logistics Policy (2022) and PM Gati Shakti , the initiative aligns closely with India’s strategic push to modernize its logistics ecosystem and promote inclusive economic growth. Backed by a $250 million policy-based loan from ADB, the ...
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Black Plastic Safety Concerns Reviewed to Understand Their Potential Risks

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Black plastic is a prevalent material in various consumer products, from kitchen utensils to electronic devices. However, growing evidence indicates that black plastic poses significant health and environmental risks, both globally as well as in India. Studies have revealed that black plastic items, particularly kitchen utensils and food containers, often contain toxic chemicals such as brominated flame retardants (BFRs) .   Source: https://www.beyondplastics.org/fact-sheets/black-plastic These substances, originally used in electronic devices to prevent fires, are now recycled into consumer products. Exposure to BFRs has been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and reproductive problems . A study found that 85% of tested black plastic products contained harmful chemicals . The leaching of these toxic compounds into food is a concern, especially when black plastic utensils are exposed to heat. This exposure poses direct health ...
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AI Singularity: A Deep Risk to Human Society

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The concept of the AIsingularity comes where artificial intelligence surpasses human intelligence—has shifted from speculation to a pressing concern . As AI technologies evolve, experts and leaders are increasingly concerned about the risks. Concerns include economic disruption, job losses, and privacy erosion as AI systems influence decision-making.   Source: https://government.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/governance/global-ai-governance-needs-a-sharp-focus-to-combat-risks/115886533 Renowned AI researchers, including Geoffrey Hinton, have voiced concerns about unchecked AI advancement . Hinton has warned that advanced AI systems could surpass human intelligence and control, leading to serious risks. Similarly, some influencers warn of autonomous AI systems, including malicious use and loss of control. Bengio advocates for balancing AI development with strict safety measures to prevent catastrophic outcomes.   Globally, AI is rapidly being adopted across sectors incl...
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State of India's Environment 2025 Presents Comprehensive Analysis

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The Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and Down To Earth magazine , offer in-depth insights into the nation's environmental challenges in the "State of India's Environment 2025" report, with a particular focus on climate change and waste management. It discusses the efforts and developments made by India in this regard.   Source: https://csestore.cse.org.in/usd/state-of-india-s-environment-2025.html The report highlighted that 2024 was the warmest year on record, underscoring the accelerating pace of global warming. This alarming trend has led to increased environmental consciousness among the public. The major themes addressed in the report include climate change, air and water pollution, waste management, and biodiversity conservation .   The report especially focused on areas like plastic pollution, antimicrobial resistance, and India’s steady progress in the renewable energy arena . It also discussed the current environmental and health issues related t...
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